How often must free-fall lifeboats with assigned crew be launched?

• A. At least once every 3 months.
• B. Daily.
• C. Once a year.
• D. Twice a year.

Answer: (A)

Regular, supervised practice with free-fall lifeboats by the crew is necessary to verify that the launch system, hydrostatic releases, and the boat’s equipment operate correctly and that the crew stays proficient. Because these boats involve complex mechanisms and automatic release systems, launching a free-fall lifeboat with the crew assigned to it at least once every three months keeps the procedures fresh, catches any equipment wear, and confirms that the crew can perform the launch reliably under real conditions. Daily launches are unnecessary and impractical, while annual or biannual launches don’t provide enough ongoing validation of readiness.